We share in the joy of the celebration
A delegation of ten students and three teachers from Colegio Ascensión Nicol traveled to the Antofagasta Region to participate in the 70th anniversary celebrations of Colegio Nuestra Señora de Ayquina. The three network schools gathered in the historic town of Ayquina, located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters.
During their journey from Calama, the group visited sites of great historical value, such as the town of Chiu Chiu—home to the oldest church in Chile, built in the 16th century—and the Inka Coya Lagoon. These locations offered a glimpse into the natural and cultural richness of northern Chile.
In Ayquina, the school community received a warm welcome from the pastoral teams of Colegio Madre del Rosario de Antofagasta and Colegio Nuestra Señora de Ayquina itself. The day included moments of fellowship, reflection, and prayer, culminating in the Eucharist celebrated at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Ayquina, where they shared an experience of profound spirituality and HMDR fraternity.
Furthermore, the delegation had the opportunity to learn about the traditions of the Lickanantay indigenous people, enriching the experience with a valuable cultural exchange. This trip represented a significant opportunity to strengthen pastoral identity, reaffirm faith, and share the joy of a community celebrating seven decades of history and educational service.
Colegio Guadalupe de Ayquina (CGA) was founded in Calama in 1954, the first school in the city, with the mission of providing a holistic education for women. Throughout these 70 years, the school has opened its doors to students from all social strata, promoting Christian values and academic excellence. Thanks to the commitment of the educational community and collaborators, the school has grown and has been established to date as a leading institution in the region. Today, on our 70th anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to holistic education, personal fulfillment, and the pursuit of truth, inspired by the evangelizing mission of the Dominican Order.
Educational Communities
Colegio Guadalupe de Ayquina, Colegio Ascensión Nicol, Colegio Madre del Rosario